Working under Pep Guardiola, a chance like that doesn't come along too often. That's no disrespect to Mauricio Pochettino, but the people that Pep has worked with grow as players.

The quote by Kyle Walker reflects his appreciation for the unique opportunity to work under Pep Guardiola, one of the most successful and respected football managers in the world. Walker acknowledges that opportunities to work with someone like Guardiola don’t come often, highlighting the impact Guardiola has had on the players he’s managed. His statement emphasizes that being part of Guardiola’s system helps players grow and develop their skills to a higher level, which was a key factor in his decision to join Manchester City.

The meaning centers on growth and development in football. Walker points out that working with a top-tier manager like Guardiola provides an invaluable chance for personal and professional improvement. By mentioning Mauricio Pochettino, he clarifies that his admiration for Guardiola’s ability to elevate players doesn’t diminish his respect for other managers, but rather highlights Guardiola’s unique influence on a player’s career.

The origin of this statement comes from Walker’s time at Manchester City, where he joined in 2017, having previously played under Mauricio Pochettino at Tottenham Hotspur. Guardiola’s reputation for improving players’ abilities and his tactical prowess made City a desirable destination for top talents like Walker. As a right-back, Walker knew that Guardiola’s training and guidance could take his game to the next level.

By contrasting the influence of Guardiola with other coaches, Walker emphasizes the exceptional nature of working under a manager with such a reputation for transforming players. His words reflect the immense respect he has for Guardiola’s approach and the recognition that such a chance is rare in a footballer’s career.